Connections Issue 2

June/July 2020 | Issue 2 Latrobe City Council

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AT THE FOREFRONT Leading the way for business

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MAJOR PROJECTS Take shape

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MADE IN LATROBE The makers and creators

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HOW TO PRUNE ROSES Advice direct from the experts

Sustain local

Support local Spend local

Inside 7

A N D N OW T H E R E A R E N O N E

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B U S I N E S S A N D CO M M U N I T Y S U P P O R T A N D R E COV E RY PAC K AG E

Children at the Glendonald preschool learned a poem as the Hazelwood chimneys were set to come down.

As the community and business sector works towards economic recovery from COVID-19, Council is here to support Latrobe City through the challenges that lie ahead.

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B O U N D F O R S U CC E S S The old adage ‘there’s safety in numbers’ has its roots in a military setting and some local businesses are joining forces to do battle in these tough times.

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U P G R A D E D P L AY S PAC E S P R OV I D E I M P R OV E D F U N A snapshot of our recently upgraded playgrounds as part of Council’s Play Space Improvement Strategy.

A quick word from the Mayor

Webinar series more than a virtual success

Photo: Amy Oates from Spoon & Spatula

The success of Latrobe City Council’s recent Let’s Talk Business webinar series was so strong, that the Business Development team is planning another!

The series supported businesses through COVID-19, through a series of seven online sessions delivered by local respected business leaders.

“I had a particular interest in the marketing sessions - Google, social, branding and design. I liked that the sessions were available on demand if you couldn’t attend at the set time. I have watched a few back later. And I can do it from the comfort of home instead of travelling.

In all, almost 300 people took part, including 16 from overseas and nine from outside of Gippsland. The majority were from already established businesses but there were many participants from start-ups.

“I particularly looked forward to the session by Erika McInerney on social media because this area is certainly something that most businesses can improve on,” Amy said.

Attendee, Amy Oates from Spoon & Spatula, who specialises in personalised biscuits, biscuit cakes and biscuit bouquets, said:

To watch any of the recent webinars, visit Latrobe City Council’s YouTube channel.

Change for the better Over the last three months we have seen a difference in the way we behave as a community, the way we shop, socialise and communicate. Change is difficult for many people, the easing of restrictions has been given to us in stages and as we step backwards slightly, for the safety of our community, this is another new change.

I would encourage everyone to do their part in supporting local businesses wherever possible over the coming months. We all understand what ‘Shop Local’ means. By focusing our efforts on supporting local and spending local we have the chance to build a strong sense of community and contribute to a resilient economy; one that is a vibrant regional city.

As Councillors we are here for you. If we can be of assistance please reach out at www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/councillors Cr Dan Clancey, Latrobe City Council Mayor

Photo: Latrobe City Council Mayor, Cr Dan Clancey

Budget to recharge

Gippsland’s regional city A series of community and business-friendly measures and a proposed rate freeze are central features of Latrobe City Council’s Draft Budget 2020-21. The budget signals Council’s focus on supporting community and business sector efforts to recharge Gippsland’s regional city.

Latrobe City Mayor, Councillor Dan Clancey said key budget considerations included the impacts of reduced tourism and decreased revenue associated with COVID-19 events on the local community. “Council needs to ensure there is sufficient financial capacity to not only be responsive but to provide targeted support to those in the community who have been significantly affected,” he said.

“The Draft Budget 2020-2021 leverages upon work already undertaken in past months. A $1.7 million Business and Community Support Package is included to provide relief for business and community, while a zero per cent rate rise

for 2020/21 has been proposed to support ratepayers with their household budgets,” Cr Clancey said.

to reboot our economy, while maintaining the delivery of essential services and community supports,” he said.

Cr Clancey said the draft budget outlined the financial resources required to implement key directions in Council’s Plan. “It ensures continued delivery of Council’s services at current levels and provides for a proposed significant capital works program of $86.06 million, focused on renewing and maintaining Council’s assets.”

“Like every community across Australia, our local economy has suffered a substantial shock and Council has not been immune to these challenges. However, Latrobe City’s citizens can be confident that Council has drafted a carefully considered budget to ensure their hard-earned money is targeted to areas which will deliver maximum community benefit.”

“All Councillors recognise the role of each level of government in supporting the community through its recovery from this pandemic. Local government has a vital role to play in helping

To learn more about the budget and public submission process visit www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/draftbudget

Latrobe at forefront of COVID-19 business response

As we take our first cautious steps into what we hope will be a post-COVID world, we are learning just how crucial Council’s early and effective response has been to the business community.

A recent benchmarking exercise showed that across a range of assistance, Latrobe City ticked 15 out of the 19 initiatives on the list, including: • Set up and delivery of a dedicated business hotline and web directory, as well as a telephone survey and direct business support • A series of free webinars and a shop local marketing campaign • Advocacy to government and the introduction of a hardship policy • Multiple fee and permit waivers, quick turnaround on invoice payment, rent relief

In May, more than $160,000 in refunds had been issued to the business and wider community to reduce financial stress for business, community groups, clubs and not-for-profit organisations.

The business survey aimed at better understanding the impact of COVID-19 on the local economy yielded 200 responses from a diverse range of sectors such as retail, transport, agriculture and accommodation and financial services. As well as informing recovery, the information will inform Council’s advocacy to State and Federal Governments.

$

45% 35% 43% 66%

significantly impacted by COVID-19 applied for Jobkeeper didn’t apply for any support experienced a decrease in turnover

Least affected industries

Agriculture, transport, construction and telecommunications

Biggest challenges Social distancing Business, events/shopfront closures

Wellbeing

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Financial

A city

transformed

Across Latrobe City a suite of major recreation infrastructure projects have already been completed or are taking shape.

Photo: GRAC water slide tower under construction.

Making a splash

The $57 million Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre is the centrepiece Planned completion date: December 2020/January 2021 The centre features a range of facilities for competitive swimming, leisure, general community use and major regional events, including an eight-lane 50 metre indoor swimming pool with 500 spectator seats.

A member of the Project Reference Group, Councillor Dale Harriman is excited by the opportunities the Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre (GRAC) will bring to Latrobe City. Acknowledging the GRAC is a long-awaited project, Cr Harriman anticipates the venue, when complete, will “go above and beyond expectations”.

“The community will be blown away,” he said. “The Project Reference Group has advocated strongly to contribute its views on the facility’s features. These include the 50 metre pool that can be divided into two, the water slides, zerodepth water play area and warm water pool.”

• Indoor water play zone • Warm water therapy pool with spa

Photo: Aerial view of the Latrobe Creative Precinct construction site.

• Designated learn to swim pool • Sauna and steam rooms • Café and retail precinct • Gymnasium and group fitness rooms • Wet and dry change facilities • 25 metre outdoor pool • Geothermal heating • Two large water slides The GRAC project received $46 million in funds from the Latrobe Valley Authority’s $85 million Latrobe Valley Sports and Community Initiative, as well as an $8 million loan to Latrobe City Council from Sport and Recreation Victoria’s Community Sports Infrastructure Loan Scheme and a $3 million Latrobe City Council contribution.

Centre stage

Latrobe Creative Precinct $38.5 million state-of-the-art performing arts centre Planned completion date: mid-2021 The precinct will see a new 750-seat theatre that will increase the variety of programs on offer, and include open-air event space, multipurpose rooms and cafés plus a new underground car park.

This state-of-the art project is made possible by a collaborative investment, bringing together the Australian Government’s Community Development Grants Programme, the Victorian Government’s Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund and Latrobe City Council.

Courting attention

Traralgon Sports Stadium $19 million expansion - COMPLETE

Photo: Morwell Recreation Reserve multi-use synthetic oval.

Planned opening date: mid-2020 A four-court expansion to the existing Traralgon Sports Stadium as well as a new show court, 3000 spectator seats, multipurpose training and administration space.

Good sports

Morwell Recreation Reserve $9 million - Multiple components complete with one project to go

The Traralgon Sports Stadium redevelopment received $17 million from the Latrobe Valley Authority’s $85 million Sports and Community initiative and $2 million from Sport and Recreation Victoria’s Community Sports Infrastructure Loan Scheme.

• AFL Football Centre of Excellence • Multi-use synthetic oval • New netball courts • Upgraded change rooms • New cricket and netball pavilion • Keegan Street Oval re-alignment and upgrade • Lighting upgrade to main oval The $9 million Morwell Recreation Reserve project is co-funded by the State and Federal Governments.

Latrobe City Sports and Entertainment Complex $1.7 million - COMPLETE • Football Centre of Excellence • New synthetic pitch • Change room upgrades This $1.7 million project was funded by Latrobe Valley Authority’s $85 million Sports and Community Initiative.

Ted Summerton Reserve $3.5 million - COMPLETE • Cricket Centre of Excellence • New indoor centre with five-lane synthetic training wickets • Outdoor natural turf training wickets • Cutting edge training and coaching technology

Photo: Traralgon Sports Stadium’s 3000-spectator-seat show court.

Big-ticket projects New borrowings of $10 million from the State Government’s Community Infrastructure Loan program are also proposed for two big-ticket budget inclusions in the Draft Budget 2020/2021– the Moe Rail Precinct Revitalisation Stage 2 ($7.5 million) and upgrades at Kernot Hall ($2.5 million).

“These major infrastructure investments will ensure Council continues to build the regional city’s future,” Councillor Dan Clancey said.

Moe Rail Precinct Revitalisation Stage 2 A strong advocate of Stage 2 of the Rail Precinct Revitalisation project, Councillor Sharon Gibson has welcomed the project’s funding.

“So much time and significant lobbying has taken place by many to get to this point. To be able to further enhance the Moe Rail Precinct, addressing what has been an eyesore for decades with streetscape improvements and other enhancements including the construction of a new skate park; I am just delighted that this will come to fruition,” she said.

This project was funded by the Victorian Government via $3 million from the Latrobe Valley Authority’s $85 million Sports and Community Initiative and $500,000 from Sport and Recreation Victoria’s Community Cricket Program, supported by Cricket Australia and Cricket Victoria.

Kernot Hall Upgrade Deputy Mayor, Councillor Alan McFarlane has an intimate knowledge of the much-needed upgrades and improvements at Kernot Hall. Chair of a Feasibility Committee that looked into the future of the Morwell venue, Cr McFarlane said the ‘makeover’ would lift what has become a tired asset.

“The upgrades will bring the hall into 2020 style, transforming it to a fresh and modern venue which will align with the other new buildings that have been constructed in recent times within the precinct including Gippsland Tech School and the TAFE Gippsland redevelopment,” he said.

Photo: Council’s dedicated COVID-19 helpline staff

Photo: Traralgon artist, Matt-Peter Fry

COVID helpline

Local musicians spread good vibes through social media

Preschool virtual tours

Council’s dedicated COVID-19 helpline, operational since early May, provides up-to-date information on support available within Latrobe City. The one-stop-shop service has received many calls.

The data and information collected through the requests made, and the information sought, from all demographics in our community will help inform future recovery efforts and activities in the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan.

Past months have provided an unexpected opportunity to showcase the diverse musical talent from across Latrobe City to residents in their own homes on Friday nights. Latrobe City Council’s ‘Take out and Tunes’ initiative helped to plug the gap created by the closure of live music events and programs during COVID-19.

Latrobe City’s four-year-old on-time kinder enrolments are open until 30 June and while you can’t attend an open day as in other years, you can take a virtual stroll around any of the 24 centres.

A strong advocate for the community, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan said, “we know from our ongoing conversations that access to current, timely and trusted connections remains key to ensuring the community’s health, wellbeing and safety.”

Phone 1300 367 700 and choose option 2 or send an email COVID19Helpline@latrobe.vic.gov.au

Performing arts online Since launching LPA Online, with Mel Pollard and Harry Hook (local musicians), these premier performances delivered through the Latrobe Performing Arts Facebook page, have reached more than 11,000 people.

Upcoming program includes: Khristian Mizzi Thursday 25 June at 7pm In the vein of great storytellers before him, Khristian’s songs are engaging, dynamic and promise to stay with you long after your first acquaintance.

Luisa Bomba Tuesday 30 June at 7pm An accomplished ballet dancer who has returned to the Latrobe Valley from gracing stages across Australia and the world, Luisa will perform an original neo classical piece to the music of Cirque Du Soleil ‘O’.

The Friday night session featured both experienced and up-and-coming local artists playing a 30-minute livestreamed set via the Visit Latrobe Facebook page. Latrobe’s own version of ‘Couchella’ has not only delivered quality entertainment to more than 15,000 locals who tuned in, it provided artists with a platform to unite the community through the power of music.

Kicking the tunes off in the first performance, talented local musician and song writer Tyler Roncari provided the 1300-strong audience with a rendition of his demo track ‘Please’. Currently studying audio engineering at SAE Institute Melbourne, Tyler has been playing guitar and writing songs for over eight years. Later, other veteran artists such as Dan Musil and Matt-Peter Fry, showed why they are such highly-regarded live performers.

Dan, an increasingly familiar name at music festivals and venues around Australia, entertained with his slide guitar and a bag of original compositions.

Matt, a long-time Traralgon resident, has played thousands of gigs in bands, and solo, over the last 30 years. He also has a band, ‘The Picassos’, who are in demand at weddings and pub gigs.

While ‘Take out and Tunes’ supported local musicians, the successful initiative had a dual purpose – it also encouraged locals to spend the evening at home, during lockdown, with a takeaway meal from any local restaurant, pub or café.

These online tours are an innovative replacement for face-to-face open days, set up to offer a visual guide for families making their preschool choice.

Kinder is an important year of play-based fun and provides a solid foundation for entry into primary school.

Visit www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/virtualkinder

Maternal and child health and immunisations Since lockdown began in March, more than 2000 maternal and child health appointments have been conducted - a mix of face-to-face and telephone consultations. We heard from some families that the telephone service worked well for them and, if appropriate, we will continue to offer it to those who wish to receive it in the future.

Over 630 people attended our community immunisation sessions in April, May and June.

This is more than double the number of people who attended at the same time last year.

Hazelwood Mine

by Suzie Lissa

Photo: Miss Suzie with children at the Glendonald preschool

And now there are none Children at the Glendonald preschool learned a poem as the Hazelwood chimneys were set to come down – a fun way to help them understand their environment and cope with the change.

Early childhood educator, Suzie Lissa, wrote the poem herself and organised games for the children to play as they waited for the stacks to fall.

“We got the livestream playing on the kinder television and iPad and while the children were playing I told them they could keep checking in. They would go over often and count the chimneys, ‘yep, still eight there’ and off they’d go to play again,” Suzie said.

“For the game, I asked eight children to stand in a line, nice and tall, and I recited my poem pointing to one child at a time to fall down. Outside we showed them places they could see the chimneys from and we put pipes and tubes in the sandpit which they busily began making rows of chimney stacks with. We heard the thumps of the chimneys falling and realised our livestream glitched! Luckily, we quickly got up the news clip and they watched it over and over.”

8 Hazelwood chimneys, Pointing up to heaven.

1 came crashing down, And then there were 7.

7 Hazelwood chimneys, Made from concrete and bricks.

Another came crashing down, And then there were 6.

6 Hazelwood chimneys, In the mine they used to thrive.

Another came crashing down, And then there were 5.

5 Hazelwood chimneys, Not working anymore.

Another came crashing down, And then there were 4.

4 Hazelwood chimneys, Made power for you and me.

Another came crashing down, And then there were 3.

3 Hazelwood chimneys, With nothing left to do.

Another came crashing down, And then there were 2.

2 Hazelwood chimneys, Their mine will no longer run.

Another came crashing down, And then there was 1.

1 Hazelwood chimney, Its time to work is done.

It came crashing down, And now there are none.

New manager to take Latrobe Regional Airport on a journey of development The new manager at Latrobe Regional Airport , Marc Grant, has a wealth of managerial, operational, retail and development experience in the airport sector.

His most recent role was at Moorabbin Airport, Australia’s second busiest airport.

Marc said he was drawn to the role because of the exciting and realistic opportunity to enhance and add significant value to the Latrobe Valley and beyond.

“A well-planned and sustainable long-term airport strategy will encourage continued jobs, growth and investment to the region. I firmly believe that a regional airport should be the heartbeat of any regional area, allowing local and aligned industries

to benefit from the access the airport provides.

One of Marc’s immediate plans is to prioritise an Airport Development Strategy with clear objectives and timeframes, including precinct planning and a sustainable long term layout of the site.

“There has been significant investment into the airport’s runway infrastructure, allowing it the potential to service destinations further afield. This would make the movement of goods and freight more viable. The airport has the ability to provide an additional economic channel for local industry to become more competitive and more efficient.

“Many of the current tenants and their employees are second and third generation occupants of the airport. It’s a community, yet one that has, for the most part, remained little understood by the wider region.

“The delivery of the Aviation Development Strategy is a long-term project. My vision is to have that longterm development broken down into time periods so that the growth of the airport is managed in a sustainable way. The challenge will be to ensure all stakeholders are ‘taken on the journey’ as the airport evolves, along with the wider region, post COVID-19,” Marc said.

Member of the Latrobe Regional Airport committee, Councillor Graeme Middlemiss welcomed Marc’s appointment noting that his experience would assist Council in its focus of creating employment opportunities relating to aviation.

“Marc brings extensive experience in business development of airports. Council’s focus is to create employment opportunities linked to the sector; I believe that Marc’s wealth of experience will assist us greatly.”

Business and Community Support and Recovery Package As the community and business sector work towards economic recovery from COVID-19, Council is acutely aware of the challenges that lie ahead.

The impacts from the pandemic - changes to business models, forced closures and a downturn in trade and patronage - will continue for some time. These effects are significant and widespread, reshaping the community and economy.

Critical Council work has been undertaken in past months including the successful establishment of a Business Helpdesk that has fielded over 90 enquiries and a website-based Business Directory showcasing the 230 local business which have registered. Roundtable sessions were held with chambers of commerce and local traders groups, while a series of initial support initiatives included Council’s move to pay local suppliers within 14 days.

Council understands this support must continue as we come together to recover and revive business activity and confidence. In total, $168,000 has been directed from this financial year’s budget to assist our community and the businesses within it.

At this month’s Special Council meeting a $1.7 million Business and Community Support Package was adopted to provide further relief, and includes a number of measures such as:

Business Supports • Further waivers for fees and charges for Latrobe City owned and/ or operated small to medium businesses that have previously been impacted by the restricted activities directions • Waiver of planning permit fees for commercial and industrial applications that fit Vicsmart Planning criteria • Business support vouchers • Small Business Grant Fund • Support for chambers/trader groups • Marketing and communications initiatives • Webinars

Community Supports • Continued waiver of charges for sporting and community groups using Council-owned buildings/facilities • Waiver of venue hire charges for community groups • Increasing Community Grant Funding Program

A Red Dot 21A Church Street, Traralgon Masaya and Soya opened A Red Dot restaurant in November 2016 with a vision to introduce real Japanese food to people in Traralgon and the wider Latrobe Valley. With a selection of lunch and dinner menu treats including sushi, gyoza, tonkatsu and okonmi-yaki, they deem their signature dish to be the teriyaki chicken.

When considering the difference between Japanese and Australian palates, Masaya has noticed there is a wider range of cultures and tastes to cater to here. “Some people don’t eat pork while some don’t eat beef, and there are a lot of vegetarians!”

With the lifting of restrictions, the restaurant is now able to seat up to 20 diners and Masaya is committed to continuing to “provide a safe dining space and serving quality food as usual.”

Councillor Darrell White described the support package as integral to assisting community groups and sporting organisations to get through to the other side of the pandemic. “This is a key Council response to supporting our very much valued Latrobe City community through some extremely difficult times,” he said.

A business owner himself, Councillor Darren Howe knows all too well the struggles businesses face. He noted the discussions at roundtable sessions, attended by representatives from chambers of commerce and local traders groups, had been valuable. “Council has met with representatives and recognises the merit in supporting and adding value to their activities. It is important that we all work as one, one team, one city to help one another get through this.”

Like his fellow Councillors, who were unanimous in their support of the package, Councillor Brad Law described the initiatives as a starting point for business. “The aim is to create a pathway for getting business back to business, assisting them to navigate through the red tape of support.”

BUSINESS LIFT-OUT

Thrive to

survive Brothers in arms Many businesses have banded together to support one another and in turn showcased what they can offer.

All you need to do, is support local.

Find out how on pages 14-15.

Photo: Father-daughter duo, Arch and Leree Van Berkel from Van Berkel Wholesale Nursery.

Insert: Produce from Tripodi & Co Fruit Depot.

Van Berkel Wholesale Nursery The family tree keeps on growing

Third-generation horticulturist, Leree, has joined the thriving Traralgon-based nursery that started as a ‘hobby’ for her father Arch and his two older brothers. The Van Berkel name is synonymous with the horticulture trade in Gippsland. Horticulture is in Arch’s blood, and it appears it’s hereditary, with the father-daughter duo now in business together.

Growing advanced trees in a range of pot sizes and heights, from 1.5 to 4 metres tall, Van Berkel Wholesale Nursery also offers a variety of species suitable for the Gippsland climate, used in landscaping, feature, shade and screen planting.

From citrus, to magnolias and ornamental trees, the nursery boasts a wide variety of stock to supply local farmers, councils (including Latrobe City), landscapers and developers, and other Melbourne nursery outlets.

Arch’s wife Sue describes the renowned Gippsland enterprise as a “hobby out of control”, while Arch attributes much of the business growth in recent years to Leree’s arrival. After working in garden maintenance in Melbourne’s suburbs, Leree – with her young family – returned to Gippsland in pursuit of a tree change. And that’s exactly what she got!

The business has quickly outgrown its current location and will shortly commence construction on a second location at Riverslea, in the Wellington Shire. The ‘VB’s’ – as they are known establish trees from their 14 cm pots then upgrade them to pots sized 30 cm and above, to accommodate trees they can then grow for up to two years. The second premises will not only afford them the space they require to expand, but also allow for the establishment of an efficient water recycling system.

Leree has focused on growing the business, from adopting a fresh new logo to joining Victoria’s Nursery & Garden Industry. Van Berkel’s has also recently signed up to plant stock-sourcing website EvergreenConnect.

Describing her Dad’s days as something akin to an episode of the ‘Amazing Race’, Leree says Arch is up early, loading trees for transport to Melbourne and the Dandenong Ranges, before picking up a backload and heading home. Despite the early starts and long days, Leree and Arch agree they love what they do.

The Wholesale Nursery supplies to industry and therefore does not offer a public service. Stock can be viewed by appointment and enquires are welcome. www.vanberkelwholesalenursery.com.au

Missen Link Burgers @missen_link_burgers If the community support Missen Link Burgers has already garnered is any indication, its first pop-up at House of Frank this weekend is guaranteed to be a hit.

Unlike the many local businesses which have had to adapt to exceptional challenges just to stay afloat during COVID-19, Missen Link Burgers was born in the pandemic.

“I started this business through pure boredom in isolation and it has taken off,” said chef and owner Guy Missen.

“I have tried to turn isolation into a positive in my life. I have learnt that isolation can get a chef of 18 years to finally have a go myself and that Gippsland locals love a good big fresh burger!”

Until now, Missen Link has operated through pick-up from its home-business in Traralgon, and occasional deliveries, but this weekend it will stage its first pop-up at House of Frank, with more pop-ups at various locations in the works.

A food truck is also in its sights.

The business has already attracted an impressive social media following. To see what the hype is about, visit Missen Link Burgers at Facebook and Instagram.

Latrobe City is fast emerging as a hotspot for makers and creators, boasting artisans and manufacturers who collectively produce an eclectic mix of art, design, handcrafted goods and tasty treats. We take the time to shine some light on the growth and progress of these local businesses - the creative trailblazers.

DoggieBalm Co

Dark Queen Cheesecakes

Huntress & Co

@thedoggiebalmco

17 Franklin Street, Traralgon

@thehuntressandco

Traralgon businesswoman Maria developed her own natural, organic skin and hair care product range for dogs after identifying a gap in the market in 2012 when she needed to treat her own dog’s eczema. Maria launched The DoggieBalm Co online last year. She now sells to a customer base stretching from Gippsland to the USA, as well as Singapore, Ireland and New Zealand.

Trading in her hairdressing scissors to embrace her dream venture, one half of the sister duo behind Dark Queen Cheesecakes, Helena, said the pair have not looked back.

The rustic, bohemian style of Moe-based candle brand Huntress & Co awakens your senses with its earthy scents of woodfire, cedar and moonshine creating a nostalgia for camping in summer bushland.

Maria regularly attended Gippsland farmer’s markets to chat to customers directly, but while those activities are temporarily on pause she has seized the opportunity to grow her online business.

“Because I make my own products I was able to ensure continued availability during restrictions and this has helped us to grow immensely,” she said. “I also try to spend every dollar we make in our local community to support this beautiful area.”

For more information, visit the online store website: www.thedoggiebalmco.com.au You can follow the DoggieBalm journey on Instagram or Facebook @thedoggiebalmco

Of the decision to start creating home-style cheesecakes back in 2017, Helena said ‘we love what we do.’ A loyal customer base also appears to love what the sisters do. The boutique enterprise has quickly established a name for itself among those seeking home-made cakes and treats for special occasions.

Their ‘Sweet Box’ is unique to Gippsland. A special gift can be found with the sought-after six pack of ‘minis’, allowing customers to sample different flavours. These packs proved particularly popular as a gift idea during lockdown with many locals picking up a pack for family and friends.

This local store – at 17 Franklin Street, Traralgon offers a vast range of mouth-watering products which can be viewed and ordered at www.facebook.com/darkqueencheesecakes

Klaire Anderson is the maker and creator behind the 100% soy candles, reed diffusers and room sprays. From the humble beginnings of weekly market stalls, Huntress & Co is now stocked in 10 locations across Gippsland with its custom candles also in demand from as far away as Tasmania and New South Wales.

Presented in apothecary-inspired amber glassware, the earthy scented products have proved to be especially sought-after gifts during lockdown. In collaboration with fellow artist, Newborough-based Mandi Thorpe, Klaire has poured her candles into ceramic beakers to create beautiful earthy vessels for nestling your cup of tea or coffee. www.facebook.com/thehuntressandco www.thehuntressandco.com

The Bee & The Spider

Young Signs

16 George Street, Morwell

25 Chickerell St, Morwell

Connecting with customers is the highest priority for Morwell-based creative hub, The Bee & The Spider. The local store is staging an exciting return to face-to-face business following a period of closure during the pandemic. While owner and creative-force, Matilda, is still hosting the popular virtual art and craft workshops she pioneered during lockdown, limited numbers of participants can now attend instore workshops – and they are selling out fast.

The niche local store is normally a hive of activity, selling a wide range of hand-made local products, from 45 different micro-businesses, and hosting a variety of workshops, from knitting to textile sculpture and sterling silver jewellery-making.

Groups, such as the Crochet group, also meet online. Matilda runs an active Facebook page, ‘The Bee & The Spider HIVE’, where community

members post, connect with one another and, over past months, have accessed live feeds and enjoyed virtual shopping tours showcasing goods including art and craft supplies, accessories, candles and bath and baby products.

The young businesswoman stocks and supports the products of so many Latrobe creators that choosing favourites is impossible. These include Newborough painter and ceramicist Mandi Thorpe, Sugar and Violets (earrings) in Traralgon, Post Code Hives (raw honey) from Glengarry and Yinnar and The Biscuit Shop in Boolarra.

Matilda said the ongoing support of her own loyal customer-base had sustained her during these challenging times. ‘It has shown me how much of an impact we make to so many people and I’m really proud of that,’ she said.

Morwell-based Young Signs manufactures 90 percent of its signs in-store, and covers everything from basic safety signs to new shop fronts, light boxes, 3D lettering and digital printing.

Like so many enterprises, when the pandemic hit, it closed its doors to manage its workload via email and phone, while staff went on leave.

More recently, work has picked up with local businesses needing to implement new signage on their floors and windows. Owners Dean and Danny Young welcomed the opportunity to support other businesses in the region who have experienced similar challenges. “All of this has been a huge learning curve for us and we have had to look at different ways to run this business, so it has been an interesting time,” they said.

For more information visit www.youngsigns.com.au

Serenity Alpacas www.alpacastore.com.au From a couple of pet wethers in 1997, Michelle from Serenity Alpacas has seen her business grow to a breeding herd of over 120 animals and a successful retail shop selling toys, clothing and products made from alpaca fibre.

“Alpacas are great fun and smart, inquisitive and sweet animals. We’ve spent lots of hours on herd development, at shows and poring over genetics to make sure we have the right animals in our herd.

We pride ourselves in being a holistic business, so we not only sell the animals for pets, guards and breeding, we also have SerenityCare to take care of other peoples’ animals.

“Fibre we shear is sold to hand spinners and crafters, made into yarn or sold to larger producers to make specialised clothing, rugs and products.

We even sell poop by the bag or the trailer load which is great for gardens. We sell it as fast as we can vacuum it,” Michelle said.

“It’s been a tough few months as all alpaca shows and field days have been cancelled for the rest of the year.

However, we’ve spent the time building a retail website and planning for some virtual training webinars.

“Alpaca farming is very strong in the local area with some fabulous boutique breeders, as you don’t need to have large acreage. Our future plans include exporting to Europe and we are confident ours and the industry in Victoria and Australia will continue to expand in a sustainable fashion,” Michelle said.

Visit www.serenityalpacas.com.au for animal information and www.alpacastore.com.au for products.

Straight & Arrow

L For Leather

@str8andarrow

365 Old Melbourne Road , Traralgon

If there’s one thing Straight & Arrow studio owner Bryce has learned from the current pandemic, it’s that consumers will go out of their way to support the businesses they want to see survive. The small screen printing venture based in Moe-Newborough specialises in B2B (Business to Business), a supportive business model focused on selling its product and services to other small businesses, community groups and the occasional band.

Latrobe City is home to one of only five horse harness-makers in Australia. Traralgon-based business, L for Leather has been trading more than a decade and specialises in the manufacture and supply of a range of collars, hames and harnesses for Clydesdale, Shire, Percheron and draft horses.

Straight & Arrow manifested in a unique way – as the testing ground for Bryce’s PhD which explored the marketing of ethical clothing. “As I began printing my own line of clothing I started getting interest from other people for custom one-off garments, or to print a shirt for their side hustle.

In the space of about two years I’d transitioned to almost completely working for other businesses.”

Bryce cites numerous benefits to working in Latrobe City, including the diversity of businesses he has built relationships with and “the enthusiasm of the people behind them.”

To find out more about this creative enterprise visit www.straight-and-arrow.com Instagram: @str8andarrow or bryce@straight-and-arrow.com

Owner Brian, a former school-teacher, continues to work draft horses on his property which enhances his understanding of what customers need from his products. While there is a scarcity of documented information on this traditional trade, Brian has continued to ply his skills and acquire knowledge in a diversity of ways, including fossicking for old harnesses at auctions to pull apart and explore their construction.

L for Leather posts its products across Australia and also fulfills requests for custom-made products such as hunting file slings, bullet holders and leather belts. For more information visit www.facebook.com/LForLeather

Bound for

success

The old adage ‘there’s safety in numbers’ has its roots in a military setting and some local businesses are joining forces to do battle in these tough times. These stories highlight innovation through collaboration as local proprietors find ways to support each other, add value to their own business and offer the wider community more choice.

Photo: Second generation greengrocer, Gino Tripodi.

Tripodi & Co Fruit Depot 2 Deakin Street, Traralgon Gino Tripodi’s name is synonymous with fruit and vegetables in Gippsland. The Tripodi & Co Fruit Depot is all about supporting Gippsland-grown produce. A keen advocate for supporting fellow businesses, Gino says his business model ensures a “good boost to all involved.”

“There are no other businesses in our street, so we need to give people a reason to come to us. Whether it is a taster at the start, they will eventually buy more and that’s why offering fresh meat from Campbell’s butchers, lasagne, biscotti and arancini from My Italy Your Greece, Goodfellas Pizza bases, Hill Top Honey Hives, local jams and olive oil is all important,” Gino said.

Gino, wife Claire and brother Damian operate what once was their parent’s business.

Staples such as onions, potatoes and pumpkin were in high in demand at the peak of the pandemic and Tripodi & Co was able to meet demand through regular trips to Thorpdale to collect some of the region’s best potatoes, for example.

“We had a period of two to three weeks where it was like Christmas,” Gino said. “We opened the doors just after 6am of a Thursday morning and come 9am there was just the bare bones on the shelf.”

Quoting the wise words of an old Italian man, that still resonate with him today, Gino said: “You never win a war on your own, you need a team.” He maintains it was his team of local businesses, supporting one another, that helped them all to weather the COVID-19 storm.

Visit www.facebook.com/TripodiCoFruitDepot, or pop in to 2 Deakin Street Traralgon on Thursdays from 6.30am.

Goodfellas Pizza Traralgon 108 Hotham Street, Traralgon It was a chance discussion that finally kickstarted a venture by Goodfellas Pizza Traralgon into premade pizza bases – something the popular local pizza business had considered. Ever since, the standard large bases have proved a hit with customers.

According to head manager, Woody, the benefits of not having to wait in line and the freedom for budding chefs to cook up a storm, using the locally-made bases, proved a successful combination.

“For us there is little work in creating the base, the customer is able to pick up ingredients for their toppings from the greengrocers and be as creative as they like,” he said.

Goodfellas teamed up with Tripodi & Co Fruit Depot to promote the product and customers can purchase the premade bases, sauced or plain, from Tripodi’s and select a range of fresh toppings while they are there.

If ordering your Goodfellas Special to go is more your thing, Woody and his team continue to offer their contactless deliveries, with pick-up also now available. Visit them at 108 Hotham Street, Traralgon or go to: www.facebook.com goodfellaspizzatraralgon and orderonline.goodfellaspizza.com.au

Photo: Nadia and Michael Tsaikos of My Italy Your Greece.

My Italy Your Greece Shop 12, 29/31 Church Street, Traralgon My Italy Your Greece started after owner Nadia’s neighbour, a local café operator, asked if she could create a gluten-free biscuit for him to provide complementary with every coffee he served. Before long, other cafes and fine food stores were asking the same.

“Within 18 months I had to get a shop and now we make meals and sweets both retail and wholesale,” said Nadia. ”We were then approached to see if we would be interested in opening a licenced Gluten Free 4 U store, which will open this weekend.”

The business prides itself on being able to cater for most intolerances and makes gluten-free products without compromising on traditional taste.

Trading in Latrobe City has been a “humbling and gratifying experience,” according to Nadia.

“We have gained the trust of so many; they have

come to rely on us now and we look forward to seeing them walk through our doors weekly,” she said.

Last year, the local venture also teamed with friends Gino and Claire at Tripodi & Co Fruit Depot, to offer its meals and sweets on their pre-order list.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, My Italy Your Greece has been able to continue operating, introducing home deliveries. The store is located at Shop 12, Church Street Arcade in Traralgon. You can phone 0449 100 541 or order online via www.myitaly.aceorder.com.au The business is also on Facebook and Instagram.

Photo: A Goodfellas pizza takes flight!

Upgraded play spaces provide improved fun The Play Space Improvement Strategy is designed to focus on the whole space a playground sits within. When upgrading existing play spaces or planning new ones, we assess more than just the play equipment. Your input is important, so we consider community feedback and look at a holistic approach to the inclusion of amenities such as shade trees, path access, drinking fountains, toilet blocks, barbecues and comfortable seating.

Glengarry Apex Park Here’s a selection of our recently upgraded playgrounds, but we’d love to know your favourites! .

Glengarry Apex Park This upgrade was an opportunity to build the township’s existing character. Latrobe City met with the community group to get their input into the overall design of the space.

New farm-themed play equipment was added along with barbecues, a shelter with a sheepy-spy, public toilets and drinking fountain.

Rod Dunbar Park, Traralgon Fencing, seating and drinking fountain has been installed at Rod Dunbar Park in Traralgon’s west end.

Boolarra Avenue, Newborough Upgraded equipment, path access and seating has been added to Boolarra Avenue playground.

Alfred Drive, Yinnar Upgraded equipment, path access and seating has been added.

Low Road, Yallourn North Upgraded equipment, path access and seating has been added.

Walkley Park, Churchill New equipment has been installed at Walkley Park.

Ollerton Reserve, Newborough Upgraded equipment and seating has been installed at Ollerton Reserve.

Boolarra Railway Park Boolarra Railway Park, at the start of the rail trail now features: • • • • • • •

New play equipment Upgraded public toilets Drinking fountain Barbecues and shelter Bicycle parking Shady trees Public art

Maryvale Reserve, Morwell Maryvale Reserve play space was constructed for the new subdivision at Heritage Boulevard. This subdivision is home to many new families and it was important to provide access to play.

It features a new play space and equipment, path access, seating and shady trees.

HG Stoddart Park, Moe New equipment, nature play, path access and seating has been added.

Got a playground you love?

Drop us a line on Facebook and tell us which playground in Latrobe City is your favourite and share why.

Morwell Town Common

A playground built by the community

Moe Apex Park

No ordinary

playground A play space where children can get dirty, create, climb, splash and burn off steam! That’s what the newly completed Moe Apex Park nature play space is all about.

In partnership with Latrobe Valley Authority and community service groups Apex and Lions Clubs of Moe, Latrobe City now has its first nature play space which features a menagerie of native Australia fauna, totem poles and a tree house.

Wood sculptor John Brady’s carvings have brought to life the repurposed, original Monterey cypress trees, which once lined the park. Now they take pride of place as children explore and climb the animal carvings and play features which were carved using chainsaws and a variety of hand tools.

A water pump is also a hit with the little ones.

Creating shade is an important consideration as additional trees are set to be planted at the site. The unique play opportunity master plan, detailed design and selection of elements was developed in partnership with the community groups who ensured that new access paths within the play space connect to existing amenities including a barbecue and shelter.

for the community Constructed in just six days by over 2,500 volunteers, the Morwell Town Common playground - a project initiated by Hazelwood Power-Hazelwood Power Station and many of its employees - has become a favourite local destination for young and old.

A unique and wondrous wooden castle is the central feature of this easily-accessible playground in the Morwell CBD, known by many as the ‘wooden park’.

Kid’s imaginations run wild as they roam the adventure playground, which offers a myriad of entertaining zones to explore. Ramps, turrets, slide and ladders, a sandpit, musical instruments, a maze and scrambling wall, a spinning cup and rocker, a shop front, swings and more provide the ideal sensory experience for young ones.

The park includes shelters, tables and barbecues, catering perfectly for families.

How to

prune roses Del Matthews from the Friends of the Rose Garden has provided us with tips and hints on pruning roses.

• Cut back hybrid teas and floribunda bushes by about one-third to one-half

The modern hybrid tea and floribunda roses flower continually for six months of the year. To get the maximum flowering you should deadhead regularly, as the flowers finish. You can either cut the dead flower down the stem, like you are picking it to put in a vase and cut 5mm above a five-leaf junction.

• Remove any inward growing, cross-over or rubbing branches

The rose bush goes dormant in winter and this is the ideal time to prune. Don’t be afraid of pruning!

Any pruning is better than none.

• The secateurs MUST be sharp and clean • Start by clearing away mulch from around the rose base • Remove diseased leaves from the ground • Prune by the five Ds: remove all dead, dying, diseased, damaged and diddly wood

Photo: Del Matthews from the Friends of the Rose Garden.

• Don’t squash the stems or leave stubs • Make a clean cut 5mm above an eye (find an outward facing eye if you can)

• Protect the fresh green and red stems • Remove the old grey wood • Often you are left with 5 or 6 strong young stems • This enables next season’s new growth to burst forth and within a very short time new growth and then the cycle of flowering starts again Pruning of old fashioned and climbing roses is a different world. For more information on this, visit the Morwell Centenary Rose Garden any Tuesday morning and we would be happy to have someone show you more.

Seed Library sprouting again

However small or large your garden, however limited your gardening knowledge, Latrobe City Libraries are supporting you with the Seed Library! The Seed Library encourages people to plant and grow their own seasonal produce by offering a variety of free seeds, including vegetables and herbs, to members.

Give it a grow!

In the 2019 Latrobe City Garden Competition, David Froud and Ann Bomers won the Mayor’s Award for Best Garden Overall and took out the prize for the Best Large Urban Garden. David, who has been a life-long gardener, first recalls gardening at primary school, planting marigold seedlings and keeping them watered. “At secondary school this followed into spring bulbs or corms as well as growing vegetables at home like pumpkins, tomatoes, watermelons, beans and corn,” he said.

Friends encouraged David and Ann to enter the competition and they now encourage others to try their hand at gardening. “We were happy to share our garden and experiences with other gardeners. The main feature is our layout, the large single piece of lawn enjoyed by the family. The layout has a flow that provides privacy and sanctuary to us and the native bird life,” David said.

“Have a go, give it a grow! Try either some simple vegetables in pots or spring bulbs under deciduous trees. Try natives for the birds and water for birds. There are smaller grafted eucalypts that provide exceptional flowering to attract the birds, then smaller natives for the smaller birds. Plant your old cyclamens in a cool shady spot, you may be surprised how they manage to flower each year with very little care.

“In the vegetable garden I like corn. You start off with a small seed and it becomes a 2m high plant with sweet corn cobs. We freeze our corn cobs whole and have them throughout the year. Ferns for understorey plants, and rhododendrons and camellias have always been a favourite,” David said.

And what about winter gardening?

“Take advantage of sunny, windless days, but have enough variety in the garden so that all the seasons and weather conditions provide interest and changes throughout the year. It’s a good time to rest some of the vegetable patch and prepare space for spring and summer plantings, make use of the autumn leaves in the compost or as direct mulch back onto the garden,” he said.

Photo: The beauty of David Froud and Ann Bomers garden sanctuary, winner of the Latrobe City Garden Competition - Mayor’s Award for Best Garden Overall.

Latrobe City Council Telephone 1300 367 700 Facsimile (03) 5128 5672 Post PO Box 264, Morwell, 3840 Email latrobe@latrobe.vic.gov.au Website www.latrobe.vic.gov.au

National Coronavirus Helpline 1800 020 080 Latrobe CIty Council COVID-19 Helpline 1300 367 700, press 2 Lifeline 13 11 14 Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 Red Cross 1800 733 276 Safe Steps (Crisis support) 24/7 Family Violence Response Line 1800 015 188 LGBTIQ Family Violence Service – With Respect 1800 542 847 CALD In Touch Family Violence support service 1800 755 988 Gippsland Windermere Victims of Crime 1300 946 337 Senior Rights Victoria 1300 368 821 Gippsland Disability Advocacy 5175 0444 Latrobe City Council Meals on Wheels Via My Aged Care: Aged over 65 (or over 50 Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander) 1800 200 422 Aged under 65 (or under 50 Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander) refer to the Latrobe City Council website www.latrobe.vic.gov.au and complete the Home and Community Care Program for Younger People referral request form and one of our staff members will be in contact with you.

Alternatively, you can call our Intake Assessment team on 1300 367 700